9 first aid herbs for your emergency kit
In a world full of modern remedies, sometimes the best healing tools are the ones that come straight from the earth.
Nature provides us with an abundant apothecary, and building an herbal first aid kit is a wonderful way to reconnect with time-tested traditions of care. Here are nine powerhouse herbs you can rely on to soothe, heal, and restore in life’s little emergencies—each with a short guide on safe usage.
I have individual posts about all of these herbs if you’re looking for a more detailed breakdown of their benefits and uses that i’ll link, since they are all cupboard staples for me.
1. Yarrow
Yarrow is a battlefield herb, used for centuries to staunch bleeding and promote healing.
As an astringent it works quickly, and effectively. I use this one all time time, as an accident prone individual. Read More about Yarrow
How to Use:
For cuts or wounds, clean the area first with water. Crush fresh yarrow leaves into a paste and apply directly to the wound to stop bleeding and disinfect.
You can also brew a strong tea from dried yarrow, soak a clean cloth in the tea, and use it as a compress. Avoid using yarrow if you’re pregnant or have allergies to plants in the daisy family.
2. Plantain
Plantain is the ultimate herb for bug bites, stings, and minor irritations as it is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. Its also incredible for drawing out splinters, and while infections should always be consulted with a doctor, it can be useful to treat and prevent them.
Got an ugly scrape? Throw some Plantain on there to help draw out the nasties. It is NOT a banana. Read More About Plantain
How to Use:
Rinse a fresh plantain leaf to clean it, then chew it slightly or mash it between your fingers to release its juices.
Apply the pulpy leaf directly to the bite, sting, or splinter, securing it with a bandage if needed. For larger areas, make an infusion by steeping the leaves in hot water, then let it cool and use it as a wash or soak.
3. Calendula
Calendula is known for its gentle, skin-healing properties and anti-inflammatory effects. Calendula isn’t just a pretty face either; it’s a powerhouse of healing magic wrapped in golden petals.
It’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a gentle yet effective remedy for almost any skin woe, the petals of Calendula stimulate tissue repair, and it soothes the digestive tract. Most famous for its soothing and healing affect on skin. Read More About Calendula
How to Use:
To make a healing salve, infuse calendula petals in a carrier oil (like olive or almond oil) for several weeks, then strain and mix the infused oil with melted beeswax.
Apply the salve to cuts, burns, rashes, or dry skin. For a quick remedy, steep dried petals in boiling water, cool the tea, and use it as a soothing wash for irritated skin.
4. Sage
Sage is both a spiritual and physical cleanser, great for sore throats and wounds.
Sage tea is a time-honored remedy for sore throats and coughs, offering relief with its antimicrobial properties, and while it is used in a wealth of other ways (wounds, digestion, cleaning agents) this is by far its most common use. Read More About Sage
How to Use:
Brew a tea by steeping fresh or dried sage leaves in hot water for 10 minutes.
For sore throats, gargle with the cooled tea a few times a day. For wounds, soak a clean cloth in the tea and gently dab the affected area to cleanse and disinfect. Avoid medicinal use of sage if pregnant, breastfeeding, or prone to seizures.
5. Comfrey
Comfrey’s nickname, “knitbone,” says it all. It speeds up the healing of bruises, sprains, and even minor fractures.
Thanks to its active compounds like allantoin and rosmarinic acid, comfrey stimulates cell regeneration, making it ideal for healing fractures, sprains, and torn ligaments.
Its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties also make it a soothing topical for skin. Honestly, I am of the opinion that Comfrey is underpaid, and deserves more attention. Read More About Comfrey
How to Use:
Make a poultice by mixing comfrey leaf powder with a little water to form a paste, then spread it on a clean cloth and apply to the injured area.
For a salve, infuse comfrey leaves in oil and combine with beeswax. Use externally only, and never apply to deep wounds to avoid trapping infection.
6. Chamomile
Chamomile soothes everything from frayed nerves to inflamed skin.
During the Middle Ages, Chamomile was strewn on floors at gatherings to release its calming aroma as people walked over it. Its presence was thought to bring peace and tranquility to the home, warding off ill temper and bad luck.
They believed sleeping with a sachet of Chamomile flowers under one’s pillow would invite sweet dreams and keep nightmares at bay.
I thoroughly believe this tells you everything you need to know about Chamomile. If it doesn’t, Read More About Chamomile
How to Use:
Brew a strong chamomile tea using dried flowers, and let it cool. Soak a clean cloth in the tea and apply it as a compress for irritated skin, rashes, or puffy eyes.
For stress relief, drink the tea warm. Chamomile is generally safe but may cause reactions in people allergic to ragweed.
7. Echinacea
Echinacea is a potent ally for boosting the immune system and fighting infections, and is a strong bolster for bodily defenses.
Echinacea supports the lymphatic system, aiding the body in flushing out toxins and maintaining balance, stimulates the production of white blood cells, and is over all, a kickass herb. Read More About Echinacea
How to Use:
At the first sign of illness, make a tea by steeping dried echinacea root or flowers in boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
For a stronger remedy, use an echinacea tincture—add a few drops to water or juice. Avoid prolonged use or if you have an autoimmune condition without consulting a healthcare provider
8. St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort brightens moods and soothes the joints and nerves.
An anti-imflammatory ally, this herb is excellent for all stress-releasing reasons.
We are going to go over another herb that has earned a spot here for a similar reason, but St John’s Wort excels in nerve pain treatment in particular. Read More About St. John’s Wort.
How to Use: Apply infused oil to burns, bruises, or sore muscles. Avoid internal use if taking medications, as it can interfere with many drugs.
9. Arnica
Arnica is the go-to herb for swelling and bruises.
Truly a rugged beauty, any type of impact wound is where she excels. Arnica reduces swelling and discoloration, speeding up the healing process for bruises and sprains, while reducing inflammation.
She really is a workhorse, and has earned an unnegotiable spot on this list. Read More About Arnica
How to Use:
For a homemade remedy, infuse dried arnica flowers in oil, strain, and use the oil to massage affected areas.
Never apply arnica to open wounds or take it internally unless in homeopathic form. Store bought options are often available as well.
Surprise Number Ten! Clove
Okay I tried REALLY HARD to keep clove off this list, as I am well aware of my own personal bias. I love clove.
Clove is an incredible and fascinating plant, known for its numbing and antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for toothaches and minor cuts.
I busted my lip last week, slapped some yarrow and clove on there, and let me tell you – my lip was so numb, I had to focus on enunciating my words.
How to Use:
For a toothache, gently crush a clove and press it against the aching tooth for a few minutes to numb the pain. Alternatively, dab a drop of clove essential oil (diluted with a carrier oil) onto a cotton swab and apply it to the gum area.
For cuts, sprinkle clove powder lightly onto the wound to reduce pain and prevent infection. Avoid overusing clove essential oil, as it can irritate the skin if not diluted.
Your Herbal First Aid Kit
With these nine herbs in your kit, you’re ready to handle life’s bumps, scrapes, and stings with confidence.
Whether you’re steeping teas, blending salves, or simply chewing a leaf in a pinch, these natural allies remind us of the healing power found in nature.
As a reminder, ALWAYS source your herbs responsibly and consult a professional if you’re unsure about their use. Happy healing!
Thoughts or suggestions? Leave a comment below! ~